Never trust the seller. Copy the VIN from the car yourself, get a xerox copy both sides of title, be sure the vehicle VIN and title VIN are a perfect match, and check it with the local DMV.

Have the local DMV explain the correct way to fill out the title.

Have a notary witness the transaction; it is worth having an extra witness to the transaction.

Transfer the title to your name, same day if possible, until it is transferred, a crooked previous owner can apply for a lost title and sell it out from under you, or claim theft.

Lock the title in a fire safe or safety deposit box.

Get the vehicle off their property the same day if possible, I have been charged storage of $100 per day by a crook, he found out the true value of vehicle after the sale, and tried to get it back by seizing it for storage fees.

For some reason; diesel owners in general seem to be more old school type honest and trustworthy.
Please don't trust anyone on titles.
I have been burned enough times to never allow it again.